Group of Autograph Letters to Herman Klein

Group of four autograph letters and one further autograph document from the great Australian soprano of the Golden Age, to the singer, pedagogue and critic Herman Klein. Undated. One letter (2 pp., on Surrey letterhead,) congratulates Klein on his marriage (probably his third marriage, to Helene Fox, in 1905): "...tis so seldom one hears of real happiness & I congratulate you both on your mutual love—I have been very [ill] with influenza, laryngitis and bronchitis so I am feeling very sorry for myself— My boy too is giving me great anxiety as his heart is weak. I hope to arrive in New York about Xmas time & shall hope to see you both." Two of the letters (each 2 pp.), on letterhead of her London residence in Great Cumberland Place, deal with arranging a meeting with Klein and mention again that Melba is ill with bronchitis. The fourth letter (2 pp., on Buckinghamshire letterhead,) mentions that Melba is busy entertaining but invites Klein to call the following week. The final document (4 pp. on Melba's London letterhead), in Melba's hand with further notes apparently in Klein's hand, is a précis of Melba's life, career and most important performances. Some light toning but overall in fine condition. 5.5 x 7 inches (14.3 x 18 cm).

Born Helen Porter Mitchell, Nellie Melba became one of the most famous singers of the late Victorian era and the early 20th century and the first Australian to achieve international recognition as a classical musician. She took the pseudonym "Melba" from Melbourne, her home town. Melba studied singing in Melbourne and made a modest success in performances there. After a brief and unsuccessful marriage, she moved to Europe in search of a singing career. From 1888 on, she was the leading lyric soprano at Covent Garden. She soon achieved further success in Paris and elsewhere in Europe, and later at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, debuting there in 1893. (15646)

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Autograph Document

Autograph Letter

Opera

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